The Liberal Party embarked on a local campaign for Australia Day to remain on January 26 in the lead up to the national holiday.
Australia Day community listening posts were held across the region, with flags handed out along with ‘Happy Australia Day’ messages. In Terrigal, on January 23, local Liberal representatives joined with the community on the Esplanade. Federal Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, said it was a time to celebrate being in the best region of the best country in the world. “So many people we’re listening to are agreeing with keeping Australia Day on January 26,” Ms Wicks said. “It’s a time to remember how Australia has been shaped by countless generations, from the First Australians to our newest citizens, and their willingness to work hard and embrace the values that unite us as a free and fair society,” she said. “As the most successful multicultural society in the world, we also celebrate the diversity, culture, and unique strengths we have as a nation. “While Labor and the Greens on the Central Coast talk up campaigns to change the date, our community is right behind Australia Day being on January 26.” Central Coast Liberals involved in the event included NSW Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, who said: “Prior to the Central Coast Council election, we saw Labor and The Greens attacking the institution of Australia Day. “This is a day that brings our nation and the Central Coast community together, and at the same time sees hundreds of new Australians receive their citizenship,” Mr Crouch said. “All of this would be put at risk if Central Coast Labor Councillors continue to support changing the date,” he said. “As the Liberal Member for Terrigal, I stand with our community and my Liberal colleagues in support of January 26 as Australia Day. Mr Taylor Martin, Member of the NSW Legislative Council, said: “The Australia that we all share today is one of the most generous countries in the world. “Australia Day is an opportunity for us to come together to celebrate the success that we have all made this country to be. “It is also an opportunity to reflect on our history and how we came to be – no matter where our ancestors came from. “We do not have to stand by and watch our National day become politicised.” Central Coast Councillor, Rebecca Gale Collins, said: “Australia Day is an opportunity for all Australians to unite and celebrate our great country. “A day for playing backyard cricket, a BBQ with family, or a beach day with our mates. “It’s a day to be thankful for living on this wonderful land we call Australia.” Fellow Liberal Councillor, Jilly Pilon, said: “We’re here to show our support for Australia Day. “It’s wonderful to see that Central Coast Council is right behind Australia Day celebrations with family-friendly events. “Around 150 new residents from 40 different countries will also become new citizens on Australia Day – a very special event.”
Source: Media release, Jan 24 Tim Sowden, office of Lucy Wicks